Old wives’ tales are pieces of information that get passed down through each generation as facts. Many people believe them, many continue to pass them along, while other people are skeptical.
Although the bulk of old wives tales aren’t true, there are some that are worth listening to, especially when it comes to digestion.
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Here are seven old wives’ tales about your digestion that are okay to follow and pass along.
7 Old Wives Tales about Your Digestion Which Are True
Eat prunes for constipation: Prunes are high in fiber and contain sorbitol, which are both beneficial to bowel movements. Although prune juice contains sorbitol, it doesn’t contain as much fiber, so it’s best to eat the fruit.
Eat an apple a day: Eating a whole apple contains the necessary fiber and other nutrients to keep you regular.
Chew food slowly: Your mother was right when she told you to slow down when eating. When you rush while eating, food enters the stomach much larger, taking more time to break down and be digested.
Eat three meals a day: Eating consistently throughout the day can keep you regular, especially if your three meals are well balanced with vegetables and whole grains. Eating regularly provides the body with energy and keeps your digestion working steadily throughout the day.
Take fennel: Fennel is a licorice-flavored vegetable which can help ease built-up gas, reduce cramping nausea, and indigestion.
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Drink hot water after a meal: Drinking hot water or tea after a meal helps hydrate your intestines, promoting proper digestion.
Eat more fiber: Many Americans don’t get enough fiber, which is why many of us suffer from digestion issues. There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble, and both are important for healthy digestion as they help keep stools bulky and moving. But if you don’t stay properly hydrated, fiber can work against you and cause more problems than solutions. Proper fiber intake along with hydration is key to healthy digestion.
These old wives’ tales are pieces of advice that can actually help you and are worth a try if you have been suffering from digestive woes.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
